(This article originally appeared in the May 2026 issue of Military Officer, a magazine available to all MOAA Premium and Life members who can log in to access our digital version and archive. Basic members can save on a membership upgrade and access the magazine.)

When he was a sophomore in high school, William Bowers saw Marines working out on the track during his football practice, and he knew then he wanted to serve. “I was impressed with their physical fitness, toughness, and military bearing,” he said. After high school, Bowers attended the Virginia Military Institute, beginning his pursuit of commissioning as a Marine Corps officer. Now a lieutenant general, he serves as deputy commandant for manpower and reserve affairs.

Vast Experiences

“I have had the opportunity to serve in every Marine expeditionary force and every element of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force, to serve in both recruiting and recruit training, and to command at every rank,” Bowers said. “I also was afforded the opportunity to attend incredible military and civilian schools.”

Lead by Listening

“The most valuable skill I’ve learned is active listening. This is so important because we have such high-quality personnel in the Marine Corps who are so smart and talented, so the key to success is genuinely listening to their ideas.”

Standing Proud

I take the most pride in seeing Marines who I had a hand in helping become a Marine or had an opportunity to serve with who go on to excel and achieve great things for our Corps and country.  It’s particularly rewarding when you see someone as a civilian with so much raw potential, but then you see them blow past that while serving as a Marine.

Supporting Sacrifice

I hope my service is making life a little bit better for Marines and their families who have taken up the challenge of serving the country during this particularly challenging time. Marines serve. Families sacrifice.